The PRWIRE Press Releases http:// 2013-04-30T01:09:22Z Video Production Firm Shares Tips for Maximising Online Video Marketing 2013-04-30T01:09:22Z video-production-firm-shares-tips-for-maximising-online-video-marketing Perth, WA, April 30, 2013 - Video marketing is rapidly becoming one of the most popular strategies for attracting visitors to business websites. According to generally accepted industry numbers, over 100 million videos are viewed online everyday. In addition, visitors to retail sites with videos stay an average of 2 minutes longer, and industry numbers indicate that videos make a visitor 64% more likely to purchase products from website. Small businesses that include videos in their profiles report 18% more calls, 30% more profile clicks, and 24% more sales.However, simply producing a video and putting it on YouTube is no guarantee of results. Due to the success of video marketing, the competition is fierce, and those who wish to succeed must execute a solid marketing campaign.Tip number one is to always have a plan before producing a video. Every second of every video should have a reason behind it, and be part of an organised, targeted marketing campaign.Tip number two is to have a concrete goal in mind. Video production costs money, and requires time and effort. Having a goal before shooting the video increases the likelihood of a strong ROI.Tip number three is to always provide compelling content for those who will be viewing the video. If the video does not either entertain them or give them the information they were looking for when they clicked on to the video, they will simply abandon the video and go someplace else.Tip number four is to focus on quality over speed or quantity. Your online video is a company’s “best foot forward”. It will often be the viewer’s first impression of a company; a positive impression is a must and a negative impression can lose a potential customer forever.Tip number five is to make sure that the video can be viewed anywhere. If a viewer has to click somewhere else to watch a video, they are likely to not return to the original website.Tip number six is to take advantage of multiple distribution channels. These should at least include a website, email, YouTube, and a Facebook page.Tip number seven is to always leave the viewer wanting more. In the opinion of many Internet marketers, 60 to 90 seconds is the ideal length for a promotional video. In an era of reduced attention span, where people have multiple people, places, and things competing for their attention, they are unlikely to spend longer than 2 minutes watching a promotional video. Also, while it is crucial to give the viewers some of what they want, it is also crucial that the viewer doesn’t get everything they want. If they do, there’s no motivation for them to complete the next desired action, whether it is to purchase a product or join an information list.Tip number eight is to make the video engaging to the desired audience. The more interesting and engaging a video is, the more likely it is for the visitor to stay and watch the entire video, and to move on to the next desired action.Tip number nine is to always include a call to action. If there is no call to action, the viewer usually won’t take the desired action.Video Labs is a video marketing and production company in the Gold Coast and Brisbane areas. They specialise in well-produced campaigns, attention to detail, and great results. For more information or to start a video campaign today, call 1300 881 783 or check out their website: http://videolabs.com.au/ Four “Death Moves” Guaranteed to Sabotage Your Video Marketing Campaign 2013-04-23T01:55:16Z four-death-moves-guaranteed-to-sabotage-your-video-marketing-campaign Perth, WA, April 23, 2013 - Due to changes in Google’s algorithm, video marketing has become a very important part of most serious Internet marketing campaigns. Videos, if promoted correctly, can not only be seen by thousands, but can also help vault a website to page one of Google for very competitive keywords.  This has led to a virtual flood of videos on sites like YouTube, with mixed results. Sometimes the most professionally produced video fails with a resounding thud, while a teenager’s smartphone video of a friend doing something stupid can go viral and get a million views overnight.  While nobody can guarantee with 100% certainty that a video will or will not be successful, savvy video marketers have noticed a pattern in what does and doesn’t work. In particular, knowing the worst mistakes to avoid can save any company, large or small, a lot of time and effort, and produce much better results. The first common error is often called “set it and forget it.” Many marketers think that they can simply put a video up on YouTube, and it will automatically be seen by thousands of viewers. In reality, very few YouTube videos are ever seen by as many as 1,000 people without a lot of help. The second common error is thinking that one video makes an entire marketing campaign. One video can be seen by thousands of people, but forgotten the next day. Statistics, surveys, and anecdotal data all agree that it takes a series of videos to be successful. The third common error is making a video advertisement instead of a video that provides great information, great entertainment, or both. People go to websites or videos for information or entertainment. They do not go to be bombarded by commercials. If a video looks like a commercial, the viewer will not finish watching it. The fourth error is to not have a plan or strategy. Human development gurus communicate this concept thusly: ”If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Michael Hanson, Owner  and Founder of Video Labs, a video production company in the Gold Coast, has extensive experience in helping businesses not only avoid these strategic errors, but in mitigating the damage done to a business by faulty video marketing strategy. According to Hanson: “These errors are really easy to avoid, because they are merely errors of omission: not errors of commission.” Michael went on to describe his deceptively simple system for maximising the results of a video campaign: “First, you must have a marketing strategy. It does no good to throw a bunch of videos around with no concrete plan. You might as well save the time, money, and effort, and watch videos with your kids instead. Second, your plan must feature repetition and consistency. One video is not enough; you must have serial content to make a serious dent in the market.” He continued, “The last thing you must always remember is that you must make a video that is worth watching. Obviously your agenda is to move your product. Unfortunately, the viewer’s agenda is to obtain great information or be entertained. If you fail to do at least one of these, there is no reason for anyone to watch your video.” Video Labs is a video production and video marketing firm serving Brisbane and the Gold Coast areas. They have produced numerous successful video campaigns, and specialise in results. For more information, call 1300 881 783 or visit their website: http://videolabs.com.au/ Pioneer Pest Control in NSW Offers the Safest and Most Modern Techniques to Rid Your Home and Office of Pests 2013-04-08T06:46:02Z pioneer-pest-control-in-nsw-offers-the-safest-and-most-modern-techniques-to-rid-your-home-and-office-of-pests St Clair, NSW (April 8, 2013) – Pioneer Pest Control offers effective and reliable methods of pest control for homes and offices. They make use of advanced technologies, like Termatrac, to make sure homes and offices are free from pests that may not only do structural damage but also spread diseases. With Pioneer Pest Control each client is assured only the safest and the most modern chemicals and techniques are used.  Pioneer Pest Control is a company that provides various forms of emergency pest control work. They service both commercial and domestic clients for pest control in Western Sydney. Pioneer Pest Control is one of the leading pest control companies in the region with a proven track record of solving every customer’s pest problem. They can help clients get rid of common domestic and commercial pests including rats, mice, rodents, cockroaches, ants, spiders and termites.  Pioneer Pest Control offers 24/7 service, so you can call the company anytime during the day or night for emergency services. Plus they have highly skilled and licensed staff with over 30 years of experience. These technicians use modern equipment like radar and thermal imaging technology for termite inspections to make sure results are accurate and reliable. This gives clients the assurance that their pest problems will be taken cared of only by experts who have access to the materials and equipment who can give the most effective results.  Through their website http://pioneerpestcontrol.com.au clients can learn more about the company and their services. The site is easy-to-navigate and is packed with essential details from description of the services provided to safety measures during a treatment and preventive measures to avoid infestation.  Visit the website (http://pioneerpestcontrol.com.au) now and check the different services Pioneer Pest Control has to offer. Rid your homes and offices of perilous pests to maintain clean and safe living and working environment.   About the Company Pioneer Pest Control is a company that offers pest control solutions to homes and offices. They help clients get rid of common pests including rats, mice, rodents, ants, spiders, cockroaches and termites. With over 30 years of experience, Pioneer Pest Control’s staff consists of licensed and highly skilled technicians who can appropriately provide you with the correct solutions for your pest problems. Being one of the leading pest control companies in Western Sydney, Pioneer Pest Control guarantees effective results to all pest control and removal needs.     Contact Information:  Nick Brent 16 Barrallier Way, St Clair New South Wales 2759 Australia Phone: 02 9834 4400, 0417 026 556 Fax: 02 9834 2060 E-mail: janice@pioneerpestcontrol.com.au Website: http://pioneerpestcontrol.com.au/ Viral Videos Found to Contain Common Key Elements 2013-04-02T04:13:47Z viral-videos-found-to-contain-common-key-elements Brisbane, Australia, April 2, 2013 - Many companies, large, small, and in between, have realised that video marketing is a very important part of any effective advertising campaign. Consequently, those companies have started using videos in their campaigns, with mixed results. Two years ago, including a video on your site almost guaranteed a spot on page one of Google, and the traffic comes with it.In this era, however, it takes more than a shoddily-produced and ill-conceived video to gain traffic. The sheer number of companies employing videos in their advertising campaigns has “upped the ante” considerably. It now takes a professional video and at least a modicum of creativity to see results from video marketing.One thing, however, hasn’t changed from two years ago: the viral video. A viral video is loosely defined as a video that receives thousands of views due to sharing on social media websites. This is the Internet era’s version of “word of mouth” advertising, but it only happens if the video is epic. Videos that “go viral” have seven characteristics in common. If a video is missing even one characteristic, it probably won’t go viral, and potentially loses a lot of money for the company using it. Here, then, are the seven characteristics shared by all viral videos.First, it either evokes an emotional response, answers a question, or both. Second, it addresses a current topic that receives multiple searches or dominates conversation. Topics that are trending on Google, Twitter, or Facebook are a great guide.Next, the description, title, and video thumbnail must all drive clicks and must be compelling. This gives people three potential reasons to plaster it on their social media accounts. Next, the video must be long enough to not lose viewers before it is finished. Most viral videos are under two minutes. Also, most experts agree that a video has fifteen seconds to grab a viewer before they click elsewhere.Although a video can go viral by itself, most business videos that go viral get some “help” in the beginning. This is best accomplished by submitting it to every possible outlet, and paying for traffic in the beginning if necessary. Another very important trait: the video must serve at least one of four functions: provide value, generate discussions, align with the sharer’s identity, or maintain and grow relationships.The last thing a video must have to go viral is actually what it can’t have: material that is too toxic to make people want to share it. If it’s offensive, it must be left out.Michael Hanson, Owner and Founder of Video Labs, has been personally responsible for many viral videos: “The best thing about a viral video is that it’s like finding money on the ground. It takes the same amount of money to produce a viral video as it does to produce one that goes nowhere. Unfortunately, more than 95% of marketing videos go nowhere.”Hanson continued, “Believe me, it’s worth it to make the extra effort to do your homework and choose the right company to shoot  and create your video. It’s also worth it to come up with compelling material that grabs viewers and forces them to click on to your video.”Hanson concluded, “If you have the right strategy, viral videos are easy. If you don’t, they’re impossible.”Video Labs is a video marketing and video production company in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. They have a wealth of experience in producing videos that go viral. To get started today, call 1300 881 783 or visit their website: http://videolabs.com.au/ More Advertisers Now Turning to Viral Video Marketing 2013-03-21T05:18:24Z more-advertisers-now-turning-to-viral-video-marketing Brisbane, March 21, 2013 - As Internet usage continues to rise, and more mobile devices are now connected to the Internet, viral videos are rapidly gaining a reputation as “traffic magnets” among savvy Internet marketers. From sole proprietors of small Internet marketing operations to multi-billion dollar companies such as Nike, more and more advertisers are leveraging the power of viral videos to provide traffic to their websites. A viral video is loosely defined as any video that receives large amounts of views on the Internet on the strength of being shared multiple times. The sharing usually occurs when a video is mentioned on numerous blogs and numerous social media accounts, such as Facebook and Twitter. For example, a recent search on YouTube revealed a video titled “Inspired Bicycles” which received over 32,000,000 views in three years. A video with 100 movie insults received over 21,000,000 views. Recently, a major marketing company conducted an international survey of executives at top media buying firms and creative advertising agencies and their clients. The results of the survey were a source of encouragement for many in the video production industry.  According to the survey, 80% of the professionals who participated in the survey referred to themselves as “very familiar” with viral video. Approximately 49% are “interested” in viral video, and approximately 23% expressed what they called a “high level” of interest. 56% of clients who conducted a viral video campaign were “pleased” with the results they obtained. Less than 3% of the clients reported being “displeased” with the results of their viral video campaigns. Opinions differ greatly on what constitutes a successful video campaign. Participants were given the choice of using 100,000, 250,000, 500,000, or 1 million as a benchmark for success. While 28% of those who responded chose 1 million as their threshold for success, the other three numbers shared the remaining votes almost equally.Approximately 95% were of the opinion that tracking and reporting effectiveness of campaigns had room for improvement. When asked to choose which benefits they had received from viral video marketing from a list, slightly over 92% chose “exponential views”, while 87.2% chose “brand engagement.” Other factors commonly chosen were online reach and having an image as a forward-thinking brand. According to Michael Hanson, owner of Video Labs, the results of the survey are great news, not only for everyone in the video production industry, but his clients as well: “We have been aware of the benefits of viral video marketing for a long time, but we are always glad to see industry studies agree with what we have experienced as truth. We have seen firsthand how powerful and effective video marketing can be, for both small and large businesses.” Hanson continued, “The magic of viral video is that it becomes viral by the most effective form of advertising known to man: word-of-mouth advertising. Before the dawn of the Internet age, word-of-mouth marketing was still very effective, but not nearly as far-reaching. Now, because the Internet allows instantaneous communication, and social networks are so effective, a video that goes viral can be viewed by millions of people.” Hanson concluded, “It only takes one great video to put your company in front of millions of people.”Video Labs is a video production company primarily serving the Brisbane and the Gold Coast markets. They specialise in extremely effective, high quality video production. If you want to create the next viral video, call them at 1300 881 783 or visit their website http://videolabs.com.au/ for more information. Video Marketing Produces Staggering Statistics in 2012 2013-03-05T09:25:04Z video-marketing-produces-staggering-statistics-in-2012 Until 2009, online advertising was almost non-existent. According to a report from ContentWise, through 2008, online advertising was so small in scope that it was virtually non-existent in content marketing industry stats. All content advertising was done in print. In 2009, the first online and video advertising showed up in mainstream use, with businesses spending $30.9 billion on print, $12.1 billion online, and $4.2 billion in the “other” category, which includes events and video.  The numbers remained relatively stable in the next two years, but 2012 represented a “tipping point” for the video component of online marketing.We are still a month or so away from having some of the stats we want to see from 2012, but the projections and stats that are available are very encouraging for video marketing. At the beginning of 2012, businesses were asked whether they planned to spend more, the same, or less on seven different content marketing media. The largest percentage, 54%, said that they would increase spending on video content. The next-largest number, at 35%, was for virtual events and website updates, which both received that number. 54% is a huge increase, and would be an impressive number for any medium or any industry segment.The actual numbers for 2012 aren’t in yet, but the overall industry stats that are available from 2012 indicate that the projected rise may have been too conservative. An infographic from Brainshark contains stats from the US, but US stats have been found to usually mirror most English-speaking countries, including Australia.According to the report, 53% of the population viewed video online during 2012, for a total of 167 million viewers. Of those viewers, 54.6 million used their mobile devices to watch the videos. In surveys, respondents usually report that they retain information from videos longer than they do with the written word. Videos are now the sixth-most popular online marketing medium, with approximately 70% of marketers using them. Online videos can be used to sell brands, services, features, or products. They can also be used to educate the public, by sharing commentary, tips, or ideas. Some of the most effective videos are those that entertain by delivering content that makes people laugh.According to Michael Hanson, Creative Director and Founder of Video Labs, the numbers from 2013 could easily surpass those from 2012: “We’re not surprised by any of these numbers. We had a great year last year, and we are on a pace to grow even more this year. We have plenty of testimonials from satisfied customers who have seen traffic to their websites skyrocket from using professionally produced videos to deliver their marketing to the public. Everyone loves a good story, and what better way is there to tell a good story than a professionally crafted video.”Hanson continued, “We are getting a lot of people to page one of Google, and we have had great viral activity on many of our videos. YouTube provides a huge marketing leverage for large, medium, or small businesses for two reasons: First, videos are the fastest way to get to page one of Google, giving a huge return on investment. Second, people have a tendency to share videos with their friends on social networks. This gets more views and produces some great backlinks for your website.”Hanson concluded, “Video marketing makes ‘the’ difference.”Video Labs specialises in video production and video marketing, especially in the Brisbane and the Gold Coast markets. To learn how easy it is for your business to utilise video, call 1300 881 783 or check out their website:  http://videolabs.com.au/. Pump Solutions Australasia Warns Homeowners: “Don’t Electrocute Yourself Trying to Pump Flood Water from Your Basement” 2013-02-28T02:23:45Z pump-solutions-australasia-warns-homeowners-don-t-electrocute-yourself-trying-to-pump-flood-water-from-your-basement In the wake of the Queensland floods, homeowners all across Australia are asking themselves, “Could this happen to me?” Pump Solutions Australasia has received numerous enquiries from homeowners concerning water pumps for their basements in case of flooding in their areas.Consequently, Pump Solutions Australasia devoted a blog post to instructing homeowners how to safely pump water out of their basements. The post focused on how to safely avoid two dangers of pumping water out of a basement after a flood: electrocution and causing the basement walls to collapse.The main hazard associated with pumping water out of a basement after a flood is electrocution. Most people are in a distressed state after a flood, and often forget that water conducts electricity. If the electricity in a house is turned back on, but flood waters are covering a “live” electrical outlet, anyone who steps into the water can be electrocuted.Pump Solutions Australasia recommends that all electricity in the basement is turned off, and that the homeowner doubles their protection by wearing heavy rubber boots and gloves, thus preventing their body from coming into direct contact with any flood water. They also recommend using a submersible pump that is plugged in somewhere outside of the basement.The optimum situation is a submersible pump that runs on a 12-volt marine or car battery, which is outside of the house or a petrol / diesel driven pump.The submersible pump transports water from the basement, a base, and into a discharge hose. That hose must be pointed away from the house, or the water can flow right back into the basement.Another danger is pumping the water out too fast. The flood waters can recede above ground, but the water table is often still up to the very top of a homeowner’s basement in the days immediately following a flood. This creates tons of pressure from the outside of the walls, and the flood water in the basement is actually helping to keep the walls from caving in.The standard recommendation is to only pump out a foot of water the first day, mark the water level, and see if the water has gone back up the next morning. If it has, that means it is too early to pump water, and it is recommended to wait another day before pumping out another foot and taking the same test.Once it is okay to pump water, the homeowner should never pump more than three feet of water out in any one day. This ensures that water isn’t pumped out faster than the groundwater recedes. If the water is pumped out too fast, the basement walls can cave in, causing severe damage to the foundation of the house.Mike Hurlbatt, owner of Pump Solutions Australasia, urges homeowners to be careful: “The most important thing to remember is to keep from electrocuting yourself over a basement full of water. In the aftermath of a flood, a lot of people forget how dangerous it is to mix water and electricity. The second thing to remember is to go slow. It simply isn’t worth the time you gain by pumping the water out fast if you put your entire house at risk.”Pump Solutions Australasia is Australia’s leading importer of submersible pumps, water pumps, and carries a full line of pumps for residential, commercial, and industrial uses. For more information, call them at 1300 922 973 or check out their website: http://www.pumpsolutions.com.au/. How to protect yourself from your mobile phone 2013-02-13T06:53:29Z how-to-protect-yourself-from-your-mobile-phone Mostly, people think about protecting mobile devices from kids, dirt, dust, water, hard work and fun play. But there is good reason to think about protecting users from their mobile phones and tablets.Not that anyone expects that our mobile best buddies are going to turn on us. However it is an unavoidable fact that the benefits of mobile telephony and internet everywhere come with some risks, and one is the risk of electromagnetic radiation, or EMR.Your mobile phone or tablet has an in-built antenna that enables it to communicate with mobile networks. These antennas emit radio frequency signals – a potentially harmful microwave frequency radiation that can be absorbed by the body.·         In 2011, the Journal of the American Medical Association published a study that shows that just 50 minutes of mobile phone use affects brain activity in the area of brain closest to the phone.·         In May 2011, scientific evidence indicating adverse health effects of mobile phone radiation prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) to classify mobile phone radiation as “possibly carcinogenic to humans”, in the same category as lead and engine exhaust.·         Recent studies have also shown that the current mobile phone certification process may substantially underestimate radiation absorption for most mobile phone users, especially children and smaller adults.Mobile phone radiation is most intense in areas right next to the antenna, and it is this intense radiation that poses the greatest risk to users. The further you are away from your phone, the intensity of mobile phone radiation and your risk to exposure decreases.In fact, mobile phone radiation is >100 times less intense at a distance of 10 cm away from the phone antenna compared to 1 cm. So as long as your children and other people stay at least a hand span away from your mobile device when in use, the radiation intensity they are exposed to is very low and should not raise any known health concerns.Powered Life offers seven tips for users of mobile devices to reduce their exposure to electro magnetic radiation:1.     Wait until a call has connected before placing the phone next to your ear, as the EMR emission is highest while the call is connecting.2.     Use text or SMS communication wherever possible.3.     Keep mobile phone calls brief – this will save you money and exposure to EMR.4.     Try to avoid using a mobile phone against your head where the signal is weak or you are moving as the mobile phone is emitting higher radiation to gain or maintain contact with the network.5.     Using the mobile device away from the body as much as possible. If you are a heavy user of the phone, consider using a handset, either bluetooth or wired, which means that the radiation emitting phone is placed further away from your head.6.     Switch ears while you are talking on the phone, reducing the length of exposure to one side of your head at a time.7.     Using a protective case such as those by Pong, with patented technology to deflect the EMR away from the user. The technology in Pong has been tested in US Federal Communications Commission (FCC)-certified labs and proven to reduce your exposure to mobile phone radiation by up to 95% below the FCC limit, while optimising your mobile device’s signal strength. Other market “anti-radiation” cell phone products actually weaken the device’s signal making the device work harder and use more power as it struggles to communicate with the mobile network. This can increase the radiation exposure to the user, as well as shorten the battery life. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued warnings against the use of such products. Pong cases redirect and redistribute radiation, as opposed to reducing it. This is the key to their patented technology and the best way to effectively protect you from unnecessary radiation exposure.ENDSABOUT POWERED LIFEPowered Life www.poweredlife.com.au helps people maximise the benefits of mobile technology for work, learning and play. We offer the very best brands in protective tough cases, portable and solar power for mobile phones, tablets, cameras, MP3s, portable games and more. Perfect for trades, engineering and construction, outdoor sports and camping, use by children and especially people with special needs. 100% genuine brands with full warranty, 100% Australian company. Live a powered life!CONTACTMedia enquiries: Pia Argiratos, 1300 769 374, 0466 44 44 14, pia.argiratos@poweredlife.com.au Police Credit releases PayAnyone - Mobile Email 2012-10-17T07:36:37Z police-credit-releases-payanyone-mobile-email Police Credit has released PayAnyone - Mobile Email a convenient and innovative new way to transact. This market-leading mobile payment technology enables Police Credit members to send payments to friends or businesses from their mobile device, simply by providing the recipient's mobile phone number or email address. Police Credit is the first credit union (mutual) to offer this mobile banking feature to its 93,000 members. Once a payment is sent, the recipient will receive an SMS or email from Police Credit containing instructions on how to collect their funds. It's a quick, secure and convenient payment option to split a cafe bill, pay money to friends, colleagues and contractors. PayAnyone - Mobile Email works with most mobile devices with an internet connection, including Android, Blackberry, iPad, iPhone, Nokia and Windows Phones. It’s also the only service which uses web based mobile banking functionality rather than requiring users to download and update software applications. PayAnyone - Mobile Email also allows the sender to cancel their payment at any time prior to funds collection. The PayAnyone - Mobile Email software was developed by Ultradata Australia, a leading provider of banking software to the mutual sector. Peter Kempster, CEO of Police Credit said: "With a member base that is highly mobile, we already have 30,000 members using mobile banking and we expect members to rapidly embrace this technology." Police Credit is a credit union serving Police, Health and Government sectors in Victoria. Police Credit is owned by its 93,000 members, and has assets exceeding $1.1 billion. For more information, visit www.policecredit.com.au/PayAnyone For Media enquiries contact Melanie HydeMarketing & Communications SpecialistPolice Credit 121 Cardigan StreetCarlton Victoria, 3053  The Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and Managers, Australia [APESMA] signs to implement Greentree, 2012-04-09T23:06:19Z the-association-of-professional-engineers-scientists-and-managers-australia-apesma-signs-to-implement-greentree Star Business Solutions (Star) is proud to announce that The Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and Managers, Australia [APESMA],with offices throughout Australia,has engaged Star to provide, implement, train and service all of their Greentree business management & accounting software system requirements.For more than 60 years APESMA has been advancing the workplace rights of professionals. They have an network of in excess of 25,000 professionals working together for a better deal for all members. Today APESMA represents professionals from a wide variety of disciplines including engineering, science, IT, pharmacy, architecture, surveying and many more. The host' organisation - originally registered as the Association of Professional Engineers, Australia (APEA) - was established in September 1946.APEA was the first organisation to ensure that professionals be recognised and rewarded for the high-value work they do. The Professional Engineers Case finalised in 1961 saw engineers across Australia receive salary increases averaging more than 40 per cent. Even more importantly it set the precedent for work value and benchmark salaries for professionals.When smaller unions were encouraged to amalgamate in the 1990s, many professionals said they wanted to be represented by an organisation that understood the needs of professional employees. The Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and Managers, Australia (APESMA) is the result of mergers between the following organisations (year of merger in brackets): The Association of Professional Engineers, Australia (founded 1946, registered 1948) The Association of Professional Scientists, Australia (registered 1962, merged 1991) The Local Government Engineers Association of New South Wales (1991) Senior Managers (Telstra & Australia Post) Association (1994) ABC Senior Executives Association (1994) Association of Architects of Australia (1995) Salaried Pharmacists Association (1997) Association of Railway Professional Officers of Australia (1997) Australian Collieries' Staff Association (2001) Managers & Professionals Association (2004) Professional Officers' Association (Victoria) (2006) Ambulance Managers & Professionals (Victoria) (2010) APESMA has been building on the precedent established by the 1961 decision ever since. It has set up and maintained a series of awards for engineers, scientists and other professionals. APESMA support members by offering expert advice on pay, conditions and rights at work. They are also a collective voice, which means strength in numbers, and give professional access to industry intelligence. APESMA empower members with tools and services to assist advancement. They influence government and industry to keep professions strong.Star Business Solutions is a market leading organisation in business management and accounting software solutions with offices inMelbourne, Sydney,Canberra and Adelaide. Star believesthat their business solution software partner, Greentree, is the best locally developed integrated business management & accounting software package in it’s market with Financials, Distribution, Job Costing, Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management, CRM, HR/Payroll, eCommerce, Report Writer, Workflow and Business Process Management. Star’s goal is to provide services and solutions that constitute clear, measurable value which will validate each client’s choice to partner with them.Trish Hall CA Chief Executive OfficerStar Business Solutions. State’s flood crisis demands rethink of water infrastructure - REINSW 2012-03-12T23:40:12Z state-s-flood-crisis-demands-rethink-of-water-infrastructure-reinsw State’s flood crisis demands rethink of water infrastructure Water policy must protect regional communities in flood and drought –REINSW 12 March 2012 The state’s peak real estate body is calling for an urgent rethink of water infrastructure needs and planning, as the cost of the state’s flood crisis continues to be counted. The REINSW says the same communities which will be devastated by cuts to water allocations are now suffering in times of flood because of the same fundamental problem – an absence of necessary water infrastructure. “As we see floodwaters sweeping towns across NSW, it is hard to ignore the fact that much needed and valuable water is being lost because of a lack of infrastructure”, said REINSW President Christian Payne. “Further, the uncontrolled flows of flood are devastating communities many of which are the same places set to suffer under long-term cuts to water allocations when the flooding eventually eases. “The Murray-Darling Basin Plan will cause significant harm to the very same communities that are now facing one of the worst flood crisis in many years, yet when the waters recede it is likely the debate will focus again only on cutting water entitlements to farmers. “It is clear that the water debate needs to extend to look at the adequacy of the existing water storage infrastructure and what needs to be built to take advantage of high rainfall events such as this. “It is critical this takes place before this flood event is forgotten by the Federal Government and the axe returns water allocations. The REINSW would urge an immediate review of water infrastructure to ensure that enough is being done to support primary producing communities by capturing precious water resources. “Government shouldn’t be forgetting the fact that we have a lack of water in Australia simply because we have images of flooding on TV screens and in newspapers. “We should be having exactly the same debate about water allocation not just in times of drought but also in times of flood. “And that debate needs to focus not just on conserving water resources by cutting allocations but also what infrastructure is needed to better capture water in times of flood. “It is only now that we can see just how much valuable water is lost because of a lack of storage infrastructure. “Further, many regional and rural towns are unnecessarily exposed to flooding risk because additional water storage infrastructure is not used to control those flows. “Unfortunately to date, the debate on water allocations has been about what can be taken away from regional communities, not what can be given to them to support them in both times of drought and flood. “It is incumbent upon the Federal Government to look at what additional water storage and other infrastructure facilities are needed to support regional communities before they return to the same mantra of cutting water allocations to our primary producers. Please direct media enquiries to Julian Brophy on 0408 276 749. the worker’s workmate - new 2Way Radio 2011-09-22T22:37:40Z the-worker-s-workmate-new-uhf-radio Meeting the new 80 channel standard, this 5.0 Watt DIN mounted radio was designed to be quick and simple to use, yet contain a truck-load of functionality.Front fire speakers and a large easy-to-see backlit display means the UHF088 delivers clarity and control at a glance. Set against these the rotary channel, squelch and volume controls; along with a fast-grasp microphone, provide quick and easy operation.Behind this compact unit sits the technology to deliver 80 narrowband channels, 38 CTCSS / 104 DCS codes, duplex range extender, dual watch, memory/priority scanning and all the features needed in a reliable 2-way, except the exorbitant price.“We developed our UHF088 to be the reliable mate for those that make their living on the road or farm”, explains Oricom Managing Director Kevin McDonnell.“As an Australian owned business we have always prided ourselves on our ability to deliver solid UHF radios of superior quality, priced for everyday use.”The UHF088 is available nationally through leading auto retailers and retails at around $259.00For more details visit: www.oricom.com.au.~ end ~About Oricom: Oricom International is an expert in communication technologies and leader in design and ideas across multiple categories, Oricom provides real choice. Being 100% Australian owned Oricom builds communication products for the diverse, unique conditions of Australia and New Zealand. Oricom International has partnered with some of the world's leading communication manufacturers to design and create communication products that are second to none, ensuring innovative design and excellent product performance.About UHF088: 5.0 Watts (max TX power), 80 Narrowband channels, 60 user programmable receive only channels, 38 CTCSS & 104 DCS codes, Duplex (range extender), Rugged construction, Heavy duty microphone plug, Memory/Priority scanning, Dual watch, Priority channel, Up/down channel select on microphone, Graphic strength signal, Large easy to read LCD display, Multi-colour backlit display (orange & green), Microphone with backlit keys, Digital signal strength indicator, Rotary channel, squelch & volume control, Busy channel lock out, Call tones, Emergency channel quick select, 3.5mm External speaker connection (for optional speaker), Front facing speaker, Requires external antenna (not supplied).Pack Includes: In-vehicle UHF CB Radio, Microphone, Microphone hanger bracket, Din mounting kit, Power cable with in-line fuse. STENTOFON Premiers World First Intercom with Advanced Audio Analytics at Security 2011 Exhibition 2011-08-24T00:25:00Z stentofon-premiers-world-first-intercom-with-advanced-audio-analytics-at-security-2011-exhibition Sydney, August 24, 2011 - World leading Intercom manufacturer, STENTOFON, today announced the launch of its next generation Audio Technology at Security 2011 Exhibition. In contrast to conventional ‘scream alarms’, STENTOFON’s solution is the world’s first audio triggered duress alarm that distinguishes between different sounds such as glass break, human voices and gunshots. By teaming up with the UK Company Audio Analytics, STENTOFON has created an Intercom package that understands and reacts to the sound environment and alerts the security staff accordingly. “Previous generation Intercom Equipment only had the ability to detect audio based on duration and volume; a ‘Scream Alarm’,” says Richard Adams, technical manager at STENTOFON Communications Australia. “STENTOFON takes Intercom to the next generation by using advanced audio analysis to detect the audio signature of a sound event and produce the alerts required by the security staff.” The audio analysis takes place from the audio supplied from the STENTOFON IP Intercom Station, and can be programmed to detect a range of audio signatures; including glass break, aggression, car alarms, gunshots, and specific keywords as defined by the customer. Once detected, the STENTOFON AlphaCom XE Intercom Server passes the relevant information to the building management system, the CCTV system, the security control room via a voice message or even direct to the security guard’s mobile phone or radio. “Aggression detection is a very interesting field. Many locations can benefit from this life saving technology such as reception desks, correctional facilities and elevators, locations that STENTOFON Intercom is widely used,” Adams said. To speak to STENTOFON and experience this technology first hand, visit STENTOFON’s stand (#J24) at Security 2011 Exhibition, the must-attend trade show for security professionals in Asia Pacific, held August 24 – 26, at the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre. For more information, follow Security 2011 Exhibition on Twitter (@Security_2011), Facebook, and visit the event website at http://www.securityexpo.com.au For more information about STENTOFON, please go to www.stentofon.com Do Yell Fire – Commend’s New Acoustic Help Point Column Premiers At Security 2011 Exhibition 2011-08-02T04:32:00Z do-yell-fire-commend-s-new-acoustic-help-point-column-premiers-at-security-2011-exhibition SYDNEY – August 2, 2011– Leading manufacturer of integrated intercom solutions, Commend Australia, will introduce a new version of its acoustic duress alarm at Security 2011 Exhibition (August 24 – 26, Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre). The company’s new, tamper proof Help Point Column combines an acoustic alarm and a regular call button with a built-in colour video camera that allows the person who triggers the alarm to talk face-to-face with the security guard on duty. “This is the first time an acoustic duress alarm has been fitted with a colour video camera supported intercom system,” says Guy Ross, Regional Manager at Commend Australia. “With conventional help points it is often unclear if you’re speaking to a real person or listening to a pre-recorded message. With Commend Help Point Column’s video-based intercom system, users are assured that they are talking to a real person.” The Help Point Column’s acoustic duress alarm function monitors the ambient noise levels and creates an emergency call upon a person screaming without the need to press the call button. It features a Hearing Impaired loop amplifier and its special loop recording functionality lets the operator listen to the alarm call up to 10 seconds before the alarm call was activated. The Help Point Column has applications in a variety of settings and industries, including universities, hospitals, car parks and public transport. Carefully selected, durable materials including stainless steel protect the Help Point Column against any form of physical violence, and ensures 99,998% reliability even under the harshest weather conditions. Guy added: “We are currently manufacturing our equipment in Austria, but we are also hunting for a High Quality manufacturer here in Australia.” To speak to Commend about possible OEM arrangements and view a demonstration of the Help Point Column, visit Commend’s stand (# B30) at Security 2011 Exhibition. For more information about Commend, please go to http://www.commend.com.au/ - ENDS - About Security 2011 Exhibition Security 2011 Exhibition is the must-attend trade show for security professionals in Asia Pacific. Now in its 26th year, Security 2011 is expected to attract more than 4,500 visitors from government and private enterprises, including security consultants, facilities managers, security and safety officers and installers. The 2010 exhibition attendees had a combined buying power of more than $10 billion. More than 110 companies have already secured their place at Security 2011 Exhibition, including leading brands such as Assa Abloy, ADI Global Distribution, Mobotix, Dedicated Micros, Genetec, NESS, AXIS, Motorola, Geutebruck, Identive Group, and Gallagher Security. Security 2011 Exhibition is endorsed by the industry’s peak body, the Australian Security Industry Association Limited (ASIAL). Register to attend at http://www.securityexpo.com.au for your chance to win a Fujifilm 3D camera and viewer pack, valued at $1,269, or 1 of 2 Q Video Systems prize packs featuring a QVS-DBM-25F Dome Camera, Free Diplomat Safe and Free home or business security consultation, prize packages valued at $1,366 each.[1] - ENDS - About Security 2011 Exhibition & Conference Security 2011 Exhibition & Conference is the largest exhibition and conference event created specifically for the Australian security industry. The event, supported by the peak security industry body ASIAL, and other industry associations, delivers an unparalleled opportunity for exhibitors to showcase security solutions, products and services to a highly targeted and influential audience. About Diversified Exhibitions Australia Diversified Exhibitions is one of Australia’s largest exhibition organising companies with a portfolio of 30 trade and consumer exhibitions, operating in key industry sectors such as Food, Security, Building, Oil & Gas, Fitness and Retail. Diversified runs exhibitions at premier venues throughout Australia. Its head-office is in Melbourne. Further information: www.divexhibitions.com.au [1] Prize terms & conditions: NSW Permit No LTPS/11/06128. One entry per visit. Prize is not refundable for cash. Winner will be drawn at 11am on Monday 29th August 2011 and will be notified by phone. Motorola Solutions and MasterCom Launch Australia’s First MOTOTRBO™ Digital Mobile Radio Network 2011-06-08T06:05:00Z motorola-solutions-and-mastercom-launch-australia-s-first-mototrbo-digital-mobile-radio-network Australia –Motorola Solutions has announced the launch of its MOTOTRBO™ Connect Plus two-way digital mobile radio (DMR) system, with a demonstration of its first commercial deployment in Australia held at CeBIT 2011. Deployed by Motorola Solutions partner MasterCom, the new multi-site DMR network is the first of its kind nationally, and builds on Motorola Solutions’ longstanding heritage in mission-critical grade technology, combining the clarity, extended range and security of digital two-way radio with data applications such as text messaging, location tracking and dispatch capability. The solution provides a cost-effective way for enterprises to extend coverage across multiple sites and enables increased productivity and safety for mobile work teams, such as those in the transport and logistics, local government, waste management and security industries. The new Connect Plus network is currently being deployed across the greater Sydney area. Businesses will be able to subscribe to the network through MasterCom, eliminating the need for them to build and operate their own digital radio communication infrastructure. The MasterCom system will deliver six sites across the greater Sydney area by July 2011, and an additional 14 sites across Newcastle, Wollongong and Canberra by the end of 2011. KEY FACTS Connect Plus extends coverage across one-to-six sites with a capacity of up to 29 talk paths and 2,900 users per site. The system forms part of the Motorola Solutions MOTOTRBO™ digital mobile radio platform. The scalable voice and data system utilises industry-standard Time-Division Multiple-Access (TDMA) technology, to deliver clear audio, integrated data applications and increased capacity with less infrastructure. The high-capacity voice and integrated data communication system includes text messaging and GPS for location tracking. Key capabilities include priority status, call queuing, dynamic site roaming, dynamic site assignment and network management. Connect Plus will be sold and maintained through Motorola Solutions’ national network of radio partners. MasterCom is the first to build and deploy a network in Australia.SUPPORTING QUOTES Neale Joseph,General Manager, Radio Solutions, Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, Motorola Solutions “Australia is a leader in the growth and uptake of digital radio platforms, with digital now accounting for almost half of commercial radio sales overall. Connect Plus provides a cost-effective way for businesses to expand workforce communications, coverage range and software applications, without compromising voice quality or data security. The robust platform is delivering tangible returns on investment globally, aiding the transition to faster, more efficient digital networks that allow customers to do more, enhance productivity and safety on the job. “Connect Plus adds another compelling solution to our existing digital mobile radio mix, with city-wide and national networks made possible by its seamless roaming architecture.” Hamish Duff, Managing Director, MasterCom “Connect Plus provides us with an extremely adaptable platform to tailor-make radio solutions for our customers. Digital is now a prerequisite for many of our customers, and this scalable platform gives them the means to deploy what they need today with room to grow tomorrow. The network provides a great opportunity for existing analogue customers to take advantage of newer digital features and applications. We believe the network will also appeal to cellular mobile network users who require a resilient, time-critical means of communication over large geographic areas.” About Motorola Solutions Motorola Solutions is a leading provider of mission-critical communication products and services for enterprise and government customers. Through leading-edge innovation and communications technology, it is a global leader that enables its customers to be their best in the moments that matter. Motorola Solutions trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker “MSI.” For ongoing news, please visit our media centre or subscribe to our news feed.